PREGNANCY is often described as a miraculous journey — and it is. But behind the glow and growing belly, your body is working overtime. While most people are aware of the swollen feet, backaches, and morning sickness, fewer realise that pregnancy can wreak havoc on something far more unexpected: your teeth.

“Yes, pregnancy can literally destroy your teeth if you’re not careful,” said dental hygienist Robyn Barnes. “Pregnancy changes your body in powerful and permanent ways, and your teeth aren’t immune. From inflamed gums to increased decay, your smile can suffer serious setbacks if you’re not proactive.”

She said hormones are the root of the problem.

“During pregnancy, your body produces higher levels of oestrogen and progesterone. While essential for a healthy pregnancy, these hormones can increase blood flow to your gums and change the way your body responds to plaque,” Barnes said.

“This can lead to pregnancy gingivitis, a condition that causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is a more serious gum infection that can even lead to tooth loss.”

Barnes said the queasy, vomiting-filled first trimester also doesn’t just empty your stomach — it bathes your teeth in acid.

“Repeated exposure to stomach acid softens and erodes tooth enamel, especially if you brush immediately afterward, which can grind the acid into your teeth,” she explained.

“Over time, this can lead to tooth sensitivity, decay, and visible enamel damage.”

She encouraged pregnant women to rinse their mouth with water or a mixture of water and baking soda after vomiting. Then wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

For those women who might’ve heard the saying, “The baby takes calcium from the mother’s teeth”, Barnes said it’s not entirely true, but it’s not entirely wrong either.

“While babies do need calcium to build bones and teeth, they get it from your diet and your bones, not directly from your teeth,” she explained. “However, if you’re not getting enough calcium and vitamin D, your body may compensate by leaching it from your bones, which can affect overall bone and oral health.”

So while the baby doesn’t “steal” your teeth, nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy can indirectly weaken them.

How to protect your teeth during pregnancy

Dental damage during pregnancy is preventable, Barnes assured. Here’s what you should do:

•Visit the dentist early. Dental care is safe during pregnancy — especially cleanings and necessary procedures.

•Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.

•Rinse after vomiting and avoid brushing right away.

•Stay hydrated to help combat dry mouth.

•Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D.

•Limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks.